We are all quite aware that the industrial complex exists everywhere. Manufacturing, military, food, health, media and education. If we are aware of it then can the continued proliferation of documentaries informing us of the fact really effect change? No it can't. The result of this work is the spread of more fear, blame and anger.
I argue that the role of the artist is not to identify or debate the problem, nor is it to effect change. The role of the artist is to be the change.
The idustrialisation of our society has in effect made our lives easier. It has improved health and wealth of our nations but the world we have become accustomed to is not sustainable. To change now will be uncomfortable, sometimes we will look foolish, sometimes we will go without. Often we will be afraid. This to me sounds like a fair description of an artist in their work.
The role of an artist then is not to deliver information that will insight fear and anger rather it is to show others how to work and live 'well' within that fear.
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